Question

A 28-year-old man with major depressive disorder reports daily suicidal ideation with a specific plan but no prior attempts. He lives alone and has access to lethal means. According to Canadian suicide risk management principles, what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Urgently arrange psychiatric assessment and consider involuntary admission if he will not agree to stay for safety

Answer

Arrange outpatient follow-up in 2 weeks and start an SSRI

Answer

Ask him to sign a no-suicide contract and send him home

Answer

Start benzodiazepines and advise him to call crisis services if needed

Answer

Provide only supportive counselling and schedule weekly phone check-ins

Practice question

A 28-year-old man with major depressive disorder reports daily suicidal ideation with a specific plan but no prior attempts. He lives alone and has access to lethal means. According to Canadian suicide risk management principles, what is the most appropriate next step?